2. amps-preamps
  3. 187580-166623

another rookie question - preamp or or power amp

I have a decent integrated amp ("decent" - to my ears). SS, 50Watts to 8 Ohms. It  has a preamp output. 

I have been looking at used power amps and preamps in the 2-400 dollar range.  

For example: the Parasound 2125 power amp, the Parasound P3

This is an OR question. Which choice will yield a better improvement,

1) if I put a preamp before my integrated so the integrated acts as the power amp

or 2) if I use my integrated as a preamp to a power amp?

It's also a choice to sell my integrated and save up until I can buy both a power amp and a preamp, but obviously I am itching to try one of the above options. 

My room is 15x13 so I am not sure I need a big power amp (big: 100Watts?)

 

grislybutter

Showing 2 responses by ellajeanelle

ellajeanelle's avatar
ellajeanelle
386 posts
 

At your budget, I would get these: Kenwood Basic M1 Stereo Power Amplifier and Kenwood Basic C1 Stereo Pre Amp SET | eBay

I owned them when they first came out in the 80’s and doubt that you’ll find a better sounding combination at that price. They were highly revered in the audio community at the time. The variable loudness is a great feature also. The Parasound that you are interested in has a quite high THD (total harmonic distortion). Not in the same league in my humble opinion.  I hope you find what you are looking for.

ellajeanelle's avatar
ellajeanelle
386 posts
 
grislybutter OP: If looking for an amp only, take a look at a Vintage Denon POA 2200, if you can find one or an Adcom GFA 555.  They are around your price range used and in a different (higher) league than that Parasound. No offense to you or anyone, but Parasound is geared more toward home theater than hi fi. 
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